Media Release

Dubai, Sep 11: Daiji Dubai, the Forum of Konkani Writers in the UAE, will celebrate its 25th anniversary with a grand event, 'Daiji Rupyotsav' at the Oud Metha Ballroom, Movenpick Hotel Dubai, on Sunday, October 27, at 11 am.

'Daiji Anniversary’, a high-profile and professionally managed entertainment programme, is considered one of the prestigious Konkani events, patronized by a large audience every year. During the event, the Daiji Lifetime Achievement Award – ‘Daiji Dubai Gulf Samaj Rathn Puraskar-2025’ will be presented to Michael D’Souza Dubai and Felix Lobo Doha Qatar, two acclaimed Konkani personalities who have served the Konkani language in the Gulf region and supported Konkani artistes, culture and programmes selflessly.

Michael D’Souza

Michael D’Souza was born on July 12, 1952, in Puttur, Dakshina Kannada district, Karnataka. He was the eighth of 13 siblings, born to the late Antony and Mary D’Souza. He married Flavia, who has been his strong support and lifeline, standing by him in all his business and philanthropic decisions. They have three children: Rochelle, Nisha, and Adrian (fondly called ‘Manu’).

When discussing philanthropy in the Gulf Region and Mangaluru, one name that often comes up is Michael D’Souza of Puttur, now settled in Abu Dhabi. He is known for donating generously to various causes, whether it’s organizing a Konkani program, publishing a book or CD, building a house of God, or setting up an educational fund. However, he always insists that his name remain anonymous in his charitable endeavours.

Michael often says, “God has granted me more than I deserve, and it is my responsibility to share it with those in need.” He donated Rs 25 crore to the Educare Fund, managed by CODP (Canara Organisation for Development and Peace) under the Diocese of Mangalore. Additionally, he contributed Rs 10 crore to a self-help fund, also managed by CODP and supervised by a committee of financial and sociocultural experts.

Michael D’Souza is a key supporter of cultural programs, especially those held in Dubai, whether in Konkani or Tulu. He also supports writers, poets, lyricists, and filmmakers through his initiative, ‘Michael D’Souza Vision Konkani’.

Felix Lobo

Felix Lobo was born on April 24, 1955, to Casmir and Pauline Lobo in Vittal, Dakshina Kannada district, Karnataka. He was the eighth of 14 siblings. Felix has been married to Stephany, who has played an enormous role in his success. She has been his friend, guide, and strength, and he attributes much of his achievements to her unwavering support. The couple, fondly known as ‘Dattu and Voni’ among their family and friends, has two children, Freeda and Floyd.

Felix Lobo has been a unifying force for the Konkani community in Doha, Qatar. He served as former president of Mangalore Cricket Club and the founder member of Mangalore Cultural Association, both affiliated with the Indian Embassy. Felix has been actively involved in church activities, including the new church building project in Doha.

Felix moved to Qatar in 1976 and served on the advisory committee of the Indian Embassy, Qatar, from 2002 to 2006. He has helped hundreds of Mangalureans secure jobs in the Gulf and is the first person that comes to mind when any Mangalurean in Doha needs help. He believes that, having been blessed with a good life, it is his duty to serve mankind.

For his exemplary service to the Mangalurean community, Felix has received numerous awards from both Indian and international organizations. He has risen from humble beginnings to establish Qatar Meta Coats WLL, providing employment to hundreds of Mangalureans and supporting their families. Felix has also organized many mega Konkani events in Doha, offering a platform to Konkani artists from India and across the Gulf. The proceeds from these events have been sent to support various causes in Mangaluru and other cities.

The 25th anniversary celebration promises to be grander than ever, featuring a special musical tribute to late Konkani legends Wilfy Rebimbus, Mickmax, Claude D'Souza, Victor Concessao, Jerome D'Souza, Alfred Rose, Henry T D'Souza, P H Pinto, and Panchu Bantwal.

Performing at the event will be Jason Lobo, runner-up of Mojo Taalo Gaithalo and Soad 5, and Sonal Agnes Monteiro, winner of Soad 5, alongside Sanjay Rodrigues, a renowned music director and broadcast engineer, who heads Daijiworld Audio Visual Pvt Ltd. Sanjay, affectionately known as Sanju Baba, has orchestrated many successful musical shows in Mangaluru and beyond and will be flying in from Mangaluru to work his magic on the keyboard for this show.

Dayan D’Souza Mukamaar, convener of Daiji Dubai, has earnestly appealed to the Konkani community in Dubai to attend and participate in this grand celebration. In addition to its cultural endeavours, Daiji Dubai is also actively involved in various social causes, inspiring individuals and organizations globally.